How To Fix WF012 - Process type is locked by another agent/session

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WF - Workflow: messages

• Message number: 012

• Message text: Process type is locked by another agent/session

What causes this issue?

The process is locked by another user or another session of your own.
When the process definition is being edited, a process requiring this
definition cannot be executed.
Process type X can also not be changed while a process of type X is
running.

System Response

The action cannot currently be carried out and was rejected.

How to fix this error?

Please repeat the action later or inform the user &V1& who has locked
the process.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WF012 - Process type is locked by another agent/session ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WF012 - Process type is locked by another agent/session
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP Workflow when a workflow process type is currently locked by another user or session. The lock prevents simultaneous changes or processing to ensure data consistency and integrity. Typically, this happens if:
  
  Another user or session is editing or processing the same workflow process type.
  A previous session did not release the lock properly due to an abnormal termination or system issue.
  There is a deadlock or long-running transaction holding the lock.
  
  
  Explanation:
  In SAP Workflow, process types are objects that define the structure and behavior of workflows. To avoid conflicts, SAP locks these objects when they are being edited or processed. If you try to access or modify a process type that is already locked, you get the WF012 error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Lock Owner:
  
  Use transaction SM12 (Lock Entries) to check which user/session holds the lock on the workflow process type.
  Look for entries related to the workflow object or the specific process type.
  
  
  
  Wait or Contact the User:
  
  If the lock is held by another active user, coordinate with them to finish their work and release the lock.
  
  
  
  Release the Lock Manually (if appropriate):
  
  If the lock is stale (e.g., due to a crashed session), and you have authorization, you can delete the lock entry in SM12.
  Be cautious: manually deleting locks can cause inconsistencies if the other session is still active.
  
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs or Workflows:
  
  Sometimes background jobs or workflows hold locks for a long time. Check if any workflow runtime or batch job is processing the same process type.
  
  
  
  Restart the System or Work Process (if necessary):
  
  In rare cases, a system restart or work process reset may be required to clear locks that cannot be released otherwise.
  
  
  
  Review Workflow Design:
  
  If this error happens frequently, review the workflow design and usage to avoid long locks or concurrent editing.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction SM12: Display and delete lock entries.
  Transaction SWDD: Workflow Builder, where process types are edited.
  Transaction SWI1: Workflow log, to check workflow runtime status.
  SAP Notes: Search for specific SAP Notes related to WF012 for patches or known issues.
  User Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary authorization to delete locks or manage workflows.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Cause
  Workflow process type locked by another user/session or stale lock from crashed session
  
  
  Solution
  Check and delete lock in SM12, coordinate with user holding lock, or restart system
  
  
  Tools
  SM12 (locks), SWDD (workflow builder), SWI1 (workflow log)
  
  
  Precautions
  Avoid deleting locks if the session is active; coordinate with users
  
  
  
  
  If you continue to face issues, consider raising a support ticket with SAP, providing details of the locked object, user sessions, and system logs.